Fear Free® Fireworks
It is common for many pets to be scared of fireworks, and understandably so. These incredibly loud and unexplained bangs are supposed to be something fun for humans, but to our pets they can be frightening!
Reasons your might pet might be afraid of fireworks:
- Fireworks are loud.
- As humans, we can all appreciate that fireworks are loud. However, dogs have much more sensitive hearing than humans, cats comparably have an even stronger sense of hearing than dogs!
- Fireworks are unpredictable.
- Our pets are not able to anticipate when fireworks are going to go off or understand why.
- Fireworks also occur at random intervals making it difficult for pets to adjust or get used to it.
- Fireworks can be perceived as threatening.
- This may trigger their fight or flight response.
While dogs tend to be more obviously affected by fireworks, that does not mean your cat isn’t either!
Fortunately there are steps you can take to help make fireworks a less stressful experience. The best action you can take is to be prepared before the event begins, and therefore before the fear sets in.
Things you can do at home to help your pet feel safe and calm:
- Keep Them Inside.
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- Ensure they get out for a walk and are able to relieve themselves for the evening before the fireworks start.
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- Create a safe space indoors for them to retreat to where they can remain hidden and away from the noises. A great example is a crate placed in the basement or a large closet.
- Play White Noise
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- Try leaving on a fan, the TV, or playing calming music in their designated safe space to help muffle out any loud noises.
- Calming Pheromones
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- Pheromones are natural chemical signals which are perceived by animals. Pheromone products such as Adaptil and Feliway, replicate these calming messages which are species specific.
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- Utilising calming pheromones around the home, especially in your pet’s designated safe space, can help relieve anxiety and stress.
- Training
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- Behaviour modification by working on desensitisation and counter-conditioning will help in getting your pet more comfortable with the noises.
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- Training is a lifelong endeavor and must be kept up with year round to help your pet prepare for the firework season before it begins.
- Speak With Your Veterinarian
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- Talk to your veterinarian about calming supplements or medications.
If you have a pet who is afraid of fireworks, our team at Mac Animal Clinic would be happy to help you make fireworks a less stressful experience for both you and your pet.
